‘The Last Friday’ — Different things to different people

I hate to mention it, but we’re only 20 days from the end of the world as we know it.

Friday of next week will be December 21, 2012, when the infamous Mayan calendar ends and, say the end-of-the-worlders, so will life on Earth.

I agree that life as we know it — or LAWKI — will end. That’s especially true since LAWKI includes the dire prediction. Should it not come pass, LAWKI will be changed because we’ll be rid of the damned doomsaying.

I bring up the topic because you just know there will be all sorts of end-of-the-world parties at taverns and other esteemed gathering places that day. Any excuse for a party, especially one that might bring in a few bucks.

A Taco Bell unit in Fargo, ND, has its own way of looking at the Mayan Apocalypse. It is advertising for new staff with a sign that says: “Now hiring: December 21st survivors. All Mayans Welcome.”

In Washington, DC, the Poste Moderne Brasserie will be offering “The Final Feast,” a $180 multi-course dinner with wine pairings and such menu items as foie gras and caviar.

And, in Wayland, MA, the Villa Restaurant has e-mailed in customers a quote from Robert Frost’s apocalyptic poem “Fire and Ice,” a 15% discount coupon, and an offer of a pair of sunglasses to the first 500 customers.

“Why?” the restaurant asked, then answered itself: “Because according to Robert Frost, the world will end in fire, and we want you to be able to see that fireball clearly as it rolls over you. If it is ice, you will go out looking cool as ever in your new designer sunglasses.”

Among other activities, various chains are planning things that will work in multiple markets. Take T.G.I. Friday’s, always a step ahead of most chain competitors when it comes to drink specials.

Friday’s restaurants are doing different things in different locales, from “Last Friday” celebrations at some, local DJs at others, and even a microwebsite with a countdown clock and information on the celebrations.